UGC NET Population Studies 2025 conducted on June 26, Shift 1 Paper I by the National Testing Agency (NTA) is successfully completed according to candidates’ feedback. This exam offers an excellent chance for the candidates with aspirations to enter into a profession of teaching and research on the areas of population dynamics, demography, and social development. It is an area-specific topic and needs keen awareness of fertility, mortality, migration, and connected socio-economic conditions. Well-prepared, aspirants will be able to pass the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professorship by availing of this test.
Also Read: UGC NET Application Form 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Result 2025
UGC NET Population Studies 2025 Exam Analysis
The UGC NET Population Studies 2025 exam, held in the June cycle, was rated as moderate in difficulty by most candidates. Paper 1, which is common for all subjects, was considered easy to moderate, with students able to attempt around 38 to 42 questions confidently. Key topics included teaching and research aptitude, data interpretation, logical reasoning, ICT, and environment. Paper 2, specifically for Population Studies, was also of moderate difficulty. Candidates reported that questions were conceptual and required a clear understanding of demographic theories, fertility and mortality trends, migration patterns, and census-related data. On average, around 65 to 70 questions were considered good attempts in Paper 2. Overall, the exam tested both subject knowledge and general aptitude, with a combined score of 130+ out of 200 expected to be a safe range for qualifying.
About UGC NET Population Studies
Population Studies, or Demography as it is also known, deals with the statistical analysis of human populations. It studies population size, structure, distribution, and change (births, deaths, migration, aging, etc.). It also investigates how these influence resources, development, health, and policies.| Feature | Details |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Language of Paper | English and Hindi |
| Total Duration | 3 hours (no break between Paper I and II) |
| Total Marks | 300 marks |
| Marking Scheme | Each correct answer: 2 marks No negative marking for incorrect answers |
UGC NET Population Studies Eligibility Criteria 2025
Applicants seeking to appear for UGC NET Population Studies 2025 have to satisfy certain eligibility criteria dealing with educational qualifications, marks scored, and age brackets. Here’s in detail:UGC NET Population Studies Educational Qualification 2025
Master’s Degree in Population Studies, Demography, Statistics, Economics, Sociology, Social Work, Anthropology, Geography, or any other similar discipline from a well-recognized university.UGC NET Minimum Marks
- General/Unreserved/General-EWS candidates: 55% aggregate marks.
- OBC (NCL)/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender candidates: 50% aggregate marks.
UGC NET Age Limit 2025
- For JRF: Not above 30 years (relaxation is available for reserved categories).
- For Assistant Professor: No upper age limit.
| Criteria | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Master’s Degree in Population Studies, Demography, Statistics, Economics, Sociology, Social Work, Anthropology, Geography, or related discipline from a recognized university. |
| Minimum Marks | General/Unreserved/General-EWS: 55% aggregate marks OBC (NCL)/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: 50% aggregate marks |
| Age Limit | For JRF: Maximum 30 years (relaxation available for reserved categories) For Assistant Professor: No upper age limit |
UGC NET Population Studies Exam Pattern 2025
Aspirants who are to appear in UGC NET Population Studies 2025 should know the new pattern of the exam so that they can prepare accordingly. The test is held on a computer-based platform and includes two papers held in one sitting.| Paper | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration | Nature of Questions |
| Paper I | 50 | 100 | Combined 3 hours for both papers | General Teaching and Research Aptitude |
| Paper II | 100 | 200 | Subject-specific (Population Studies) |
UGC NET Population Studies Marking Scheme 2025
Knowing the marking scheme is important for intelligent preparation and optimized time management for the UGC NET Population Studies 2025 examination. The examination is of a simple and candidate-friendly nature:| Feature | Details |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Number of Questions | 150 (Paper I: 50, Paper II: 100) |
| Total Marks | 300 marks |
| Marks for Each Correct Answer | +2 marks |
| Negative Marking | No negative marking |
| Duration | 3 hours (no break between Paper I and II) |
| Language of Paper | English and Hindi |
| Compulsory Papers | Both Paper I and Paper II are compulsory |
UGC NET Population Studies Minimum Qualifying Marks 2025
The minimum cut-off marks for UGC NET Population Studies 2025 exam are important for the candidates to know the cut-off score to pass the exam. The cut-off marks are calculated considering the overall score for both Paper I (General Paper) and Paper II (Subject-Specific).| Category | Minimum Percentage | Marks Out of 300 |
| General (UR) | 40% | 120 marks |
| OBC (NCL), SC, ST, PwD, Third Gender | 35% | 105 marks |
UGC NET Population Studies Syllabus 2025
The UGC NET Population Studies Syllabus 2025 has a vast number of topics spanning demography, population policies, research methodology, and sustainable development. Familiarity with the syllabus is pivotal to strategic preparation.UGC NET Population Studies Syllabus 2025 Unit-wise
The UGC NET Population Studies syllabus 2025 is aimed at testing the knowledge of demographic concepts, research methodology, and population-development relationship. The syllabus consists of 11 units, both conceptual and applied. Below is the unit-wise detailed syllabus: Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus 2025| Unit | Topics Covered |
| Unit 1: Introduction to Population Studies | Concepts and Measures of Population Studies History and Scope of Demography Relationship of Demography with Other Disciplines |
| Unit 2: Sources of Demographic Data | Census Civil Registration System Sample Surveys International Sources |
| Unit 3: Population Theories | Malthusian Theory Optimum Population Theory Theory of Demographic Transition Marxist Perspective |
| Unit 4: Fertility | Concepts and Measures (CBR, GFR, TFR, etc.) Determinants and Differentials Proximate Determinants of Fertility Fertility Policies and Programmes |
| Unit 5: Mortality | Mortality Measures (CDR, IMR, Life Tables) Causes and Differentials of Mortality Maternal and Child Mortality Health Interventions |
| Unit 6: Migration | Types and Theories of Migration Measures and Patterns Causes and Consequences Internal and International Migration |
| Unit 7: Population Policies and Programs | Population Policy in India International Population Conferences (e.g., Cairo, Bucharest) Family Planning and Welfare Programs |
| Unit 8: Urbanization and Population Distribution | Trends and Patterns of Urbanization Slums and Urban Poverty Regional Distribution of Population |
| Unit 9: Gender and Population | Gender Issues in Demography Sex Ratio Trends Women’s Empowerment and Fertility |
| Unit 10: Population and Sustainable Development | Environment and Population Interface Population Growth and Resources Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Demographic Perspectives |
| Unit 11: Research Methodology and Statistical Techniques | Methods of Demographic Analysis Statistical Tools and Techniques Sampling Methods Report Writing and Presentation |
How to Prepare for UGC NET Population Studies 2025?
Here are some good preparation tips to prepare for UGC NET Population Studies 2025 exam:- Understand the Syllabus Properly: Divide each unit and prepare short notes for revision.
- Use Standard Books: “Demography” by Bogue, “Principles of Population Studies” by Asha A. Bhende and Tara Kanitkar, “Methods and Materials of Demography” by Siegel and Swanson.
- Practice MCQs: Practice previous years’ papers and mock tests.
- Pay Attention to Research Methodology: It’s an important part in Paper 2 and connected with Paper 1 as well.
- Stay Up-to-Date: Read reports such as Census data, NFHS (National Family Health Survey), UNFPA Reports, etc.
- Revision and Time Management: Give time for revision, especially for formulas, theories, and models.
Career Opportunities after UGC NET Population Studies
Passing the UGC NET Population Studies exam ensures multiple career options that are interesting and challenging. Population Studies candidates are highly sought after in research, academia, public policy, international organizations, and the development field. Here’s an overview of the key career opportunities:Assistant Professor/Lecturer
- Qualified to apply for Assistant Professor positions in universities and colleges.
- Teach Demography, Population Studies, and allied subjects.
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Research
- Undertake funded Ph.D. research and research projects.
- Employment as Research Associates or Postdoctoral Fellows in demographic research institutes.
Government Jobs
- Employed with organizations such as Census of India, Ministry of Health, NITI Aayog, MoSPI.
- Designations are Demographer, Statistical Officer, Research Officer, Policy Analyst.
International Organizations
- Jobs with UNFPA, WHO, UNDP, World Bank.
- Positions such as Population Analyst, Research Consultant, Monitoring & Evaluation Expert.
NGOs and Development Sector
- Work in health, family planning, gender equity, migration, urbanization domains.
- Positions such as Program Officer, Field Research Coordinator, or Policy Advisor.
Data and Statistical Analysis
- As a Demographic Data Analyst or Social Statistician in research companies and consultancy firms.
UGC NET Population Studies Question Paper 2024
The UGC NET Population Studies Question Paper 2024 was set according to the recent exam pattern, with a combination of theoretical questions, applied questions, and data interpretation questions. It examined the knowledge of candidates regarding demographic principles, theories of population, trends in migration, fertility and mortality indicators, research methodology, and current policy matters. Here’s a detailed account:| Exam Name | Shift | Paper | Download Link |
| UGC NET June 2024 | Shift 1 | Paper 2 | Download PDF |
UGC NET Population Studies Previous Year Question Papers
Practicing UGC NET Population Studies Previous Year Question Papers is the best approach to know the pattern of the exam, difficulty level, and questions asked. It makes the candidate more confident about their preparation and increases confidence to face the coming exam.| Exam Name | Year | Download PDF |
| UGC NET Population Studies | 2023 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Population Studies | 2022 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Population Studies | 2021 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Population Studies | 2020 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Population Studies | 2018 | Download Link |
Conclusion
UGC NET Population Studies 2025 is an excellent platform for demography’s potential researchers and academicians. It presents an opportunity to gain a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professorship, paving the way to employment opportunities in teaching, research, government, international bodies, and development organizations. Through a defined syllabus and equitable exam scheme, applicants have every chance of passing with key points such as fertility, mortality, migration, population policies, and sustainable development in focus. Regular practice, punctuality, and keeping abreast of demographic trends are essential to success. Your preparation today determines your career tomorrow.UGC NET Population Studies 2025 FAQs
UGC NET Population Studies is an All India test where the demography, population dynamics, and similar subjects of knowledge are measured to appoint for the posts of JRF or Assistant Professor.
Candidates require a Master’s degree in Population Studies and the same branch as 55% marks in the General Category and 50% marks for the OBC/SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender category.
The exam is divided into two papers: Paper I (General Aptitude) containing 50 questions and Paper II (Subject-Specific) containing 100 questions. Both are MCQ type, adding up to 300 marks.
Major topics are demographic theories, fertility, mortality, migration, population policies, sustainable development, and research methodology.
2 marks are awarded for every correct answer with no negative marking for wrong answers.
